The reading suggestions have been kindly provided by staff members of the downtown bookstore McNally Jackson.

Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens
I’m probably correct in assuming that it’s been a while since you’ve read a book that topped 800 pages. You’re off the hook if I’m wrong, but if I’m right, you should seriously consider reading this book. There’s a definite, distinct reading pleasure that just can’t be found in books that couldn’t double as a doorstop. Also, Little Dorrit happens to be one of Dickens’ best, and the critically acclaimed BBC and WGBH miniseries was just released on DVD. Here’s your chance to read the book first.

The Adderall Diaries By Stephen Elliott
I swallowed this book whole in a single night. Part memoir, part true-crime investigation, The Adderall Diaries plumbs the depths of memory, family, writer’s block, study drugs, wounds both emotional and physical, and murders confessed and denied. Gripping, gripping stuff.

Inside the Painter’s Studio by Joe Fig
It’s almost too good, this book. The collection of images of artists’ studios might have been enough for its scope and the insight it provides alone, but, then, we also get interviews with each artist where they talk about process and influence and intent and reveal themselves just the way you’d want if you’re the kind of person who gets all fired up by just looking at images of someone’s workspace. Oh, and those images—not just photos, but actually photos of miniature replicas of the studios made by Joe Fig. What’s funny is that that’s how this whole thing came about, he was so into process that he scaled down and duplicated the process of creating (and working in) each space and interviewed the artists to support that work. Extraordinary.

George’s Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy & Stephen Hawking
A delectable middle-readers book. It is also a great way for adults to touch up on their astronomical comprehensions. The second book of this series, George’s Cosmic Treasure Hunt, has recently hit the shelves, as well.

McNally Jackson independent bookstore is well worth a visit, they have a fantastic selection of books on their shelves. The store is located in NoLIta at 52 Prince Street between Lafayette and Mulberry. Visit them on the Web.